Preparation -
Beat the eggs, sugar, and shortening together, at medium speed, until
light and fluffy. Mix the dry ingredients together. At low speed, add the dry ingredient mixture, alternately with the mashed bananas, just until smooth. Stir in the nuts, if using. Bake in a preheated oven at 350º for 50 to 60 minutes or until a pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove the baked bread from the pan to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing.